Fruit Canning Factory at Longnak re-commissioned

Mokokchung, November 20 (MExN): Advisor Horticulture & Borders Affairs Mhathung Yanthan formally re-commissioned the Fruit Canning Factory at Longnak under Mokokchung district on November 18.

A DIPR report stated that Advisor Mhathung Yanthan lauded all those involved in bringing the Longnak Canning Factory back to life. He stressed on the need to run the factory consistently and urged the villagers to take up farming as an enterprise by harnessing the potential of the area. He also sought their continuous support and cooperation for all round development.

It may be mentioned that the Fruit Canning Factory at Longnak started in 1964 and was commissioned as quasi-commercial unit on May 5, 1974. The factory has a capacity of 250 MT annually. 

The factory was kept on hold in 2006, primarily for up gradation and revitalization. 

During 2010, the Department engaged an expert team from Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysore for feasibility study and preparation of detail plan for modernization of the factory. 

The expert team recommended a total revival cost to the tune of Rs 411.74 lakhs out of which the Planning Commission, Government of India awarded Rs 100.00 Lakhs. “The restoration work is now completed and is now starting to manufacture processed products of Bamboo shoots, pineapple, kiwi, oranges, passion fruit, etc,” the DIPR report stated. 

Commissioner & Secretary, Horticulture, Anenla T Sato, IAS delivered the keynote address. A brief report on the Longnak Canning Factory was presented by Deputy Director, Horticulture, Meyasashi. Short speeches were delivered by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mangkolemba, Dharam Raj and Chairman, Changki Village Council, Lemtimenba Amri. Vote of thanks was proposed by Fruit Technological Officer, Longnak Aoimrong while the programme was chaired by Director, Horticulture and Mission Director (MIDH), Dr Elithung Lotha.

Earlier, the Advisor also visited Progeny Orchard, Longnak.